Question

What are the four categories into which the human value of natural species can be divided? Give examples of each one.

Short answer

The four categories of human value of natural species are Direct Economic Value (eg. Fish), Indirect Economic Value (eg. Bees), Aesthetic Value (eg. Roses), and Scientifical and Educational Value (eg. Fruit flies in research).

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the categories

The first task is to identify the four categories into which the human value of natural species can be divided. These are: Direct Economic Value, Indirect Economic Value, Aesthetic Value, and Scientifical and Educational Value.

Providing examples for Direct Economic Value

Direct Economic Value refers to species that provide economic benefit to humans directly. For example, species that are used as food like fish and crops, medicinal uses like aloe vera plant, or for commercial use like timber.

Providing examples for Indirect Economic Value

Indirect Economic Value refers to species that provide significant value indirectly, for example by maintaining ecological balance or being a part of the food chain. Bees, which contribute to plant pollination, a crucial part of agriculture, are an example.

Providing examples for Aesthetic Value

Aesthetic Value refers to species that are appreciated for their beauty and the enjoyment humans draw from their existence. This could be nature tourism, national or local parks, or even plants kept for their aesthetic value, like roses.

Providing examples for Scientifical and Educational Value

Scientifical and Educational Value refers to species which provide value that is restricted to scientific and academic pursuits. For example, model organisms in research like fruit flies or mice, or species which assist in education, like the dissection of frogs in biology classes.